Origin
Oxalis sonderiana (Kuntze) T.M.Salter, commonly known as pink wood sorrel, is a semi-aquatic plant species that belongs to the family Oxalidaceae. The plant is native to South America's subtropical regions, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Common Names
In addition to being known as pink wood sorrel, Oxalis sonderiana goes by other common names such as Sonder's wood sorrel, Sonder's oxalis, and trailing pink wood sorrel.
Uses
Oxalis sonderiana is primarily used in horticulture as a decorative plant owing to its attractive pink flowers and its ability to thrive in shady areas. It grows well in containers and hanging baskets and adds a pop of color to any garden, whether cultivated outdoors or indoors.
General Appearance
Oxalis sonderiana grows as a perennial herb and is characterized by slender stems that can extend up to 20 inches in length. The leaves are comprised of uniquely shaped leaflets, with each cluster consisting of three oval-shaped leaflets. The leaves are generally green, sometimes with noticeable purple markings. The plant's flowers are the primary attraction, with five petals made up of a pink funnel-shaped corolla axis. The blooms measure approximately an inch in diameter and typically grow in clusters at the end of the stems.
Light Requirements
Oxalis sonderiana requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It does not tolerate direct sunlight and can be burned when exposed to it for extended periods. Grow lights can be used to supplement natural light if necessary.
Temperature Requirements
Oxalis sonderiana prefers moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C). Avoid placing the plant near drafts or temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Oxalis sonderiana grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5-6.5 is ideal. Use a potting mix formulated for indoor plants or create a mix using equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, but do not let it become waterlogged.
Cultivation
Oxalis sonderiana is an easy plant to cultivate and is suited to a range of growing conditions. It is a perennial plant that tolerates partial shade and full sun, making it versatile in terms of where it can be placed. Soil conditions are also flexible, with the caveat that the soil must be well-drained to avoid root rot.
The ideal pH range for the soil to grow Oxalis sonderiana is between 5.8 and 6.5, which is mildly acidic. Before planting, it's important to work in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil structure and drainage.
Watering Needs
Oxalis sonderiana is not a water-demanding plant, but it does need to be watered regularly. The frequency of waterings will depend on a variety of factors, including the weather, the potting soil, and the size of the container. As a general rule, water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch.
When watering, it's important not to overwater the plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Conversely, under-watering can cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown. To avoid these issues, use a watering can or a hose with a gentle spray nozzle to water the Oxalis sonderiana.
Fertilization
Oxalis sonderiana benefits from regular applications of fertilizer to help it grow and bloom. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, is ideal. Fertilizer should be applied every two to three weeks during the growing season, from spring to fall.
When applying fertilizer, be careful not to overdo it. Too much fertilizer can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can harm the plant. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the proper dosage and application method.
Pruning
Pruning is not usually necessary for Oxalis sonderiana, but it can help to shape the plant and improve its overall appearance. Prune the plant in the spring, after it has finished flowering, and again in the fall, before it goes dormant.
Remove any dead or damaged leaves, and trim back any long, straggly stems. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Oxalis sonderiana
Oxalis sonderiana (Kuntze) T.M.Salter is a beautiful plant species that is propagated through several means. These methods include:
Seeds
Propagation through seeds is a common method and requires collecting mature seeds from the plant. It is important to dry the seeds properly to avoid mold growth before sowing. Plant the seeds in a well-draining medium and keep them moist, with some exposure to sunlight. The seeds typically germinate within 7 to 14 days.
Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings involves cutting a stem, preferably from mature plants and planting them in a well-draining medium. Keep the soil moist, and have the cuttings placed in a humid location. Roots usually form within 2 to 4 weeks.
Division
For plants that have bulb-like structures, division is a propagation method that can be used. Split the bulbs into small sections, and plant them in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and place the plants in a location that receives bright but indirect sunlight. The plants begin growing within a couple of weeks as long as the conditions are ideal.
Offsets
Oxalis sonderiana produces offset bulbs near the mother plant, which can easily be detached and replanted. Ensure that each offset has some of the mother plant's corms attached to it before planting in a well-draining medium. Keep the soil moist and the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxalis Sonderiana
Oxalis sonderiana, also known as the sorrel shamrock, is a popular ornamental plant that is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management practices are essential to maintain the plant's health and beauty.
Common Pests
One common pest that can affect Oxalis sonderiana is spider mites. These tiny insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and result in the plant's overall decline. To manage spider mites, you must maintain a high level of humidity around the plant and regularly spray it with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Another common pest is the mealybug, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage mealybugs, it's important to inspect the plant regularly and remove any visible bugs manually. You may also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage them.
Common Diseases
Oxalis sonderiana is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot disease. Powdery mildew appears as white or gray powder on the leaves, and leaf spot disease results in brown spots on the leaves. To prevent and manage fungal diseases, it's important to keep the plant's leaves dry by avoiding overhead watering. Additionally, you can apply a fungicide to manage these diseases. Another common disease that can affect Oxalis sonderiana is bacterial leaf blight, which causes brown stains on the leaves and can lead to wilting. To manage bacterial leaf blight, you must remove all infected leaves and apply a copper-based fungicide.
Preventive Measures
To prevent diseases and pests, ensure that your plant receives the appropriate light and moisture levels, as well as adequate air circulation. Avoid placing the plant in humid areas, which can attract pests and fungi. When repotting the plant, use sterile soil to prevent soil-borne diseases. Additionally, practice good hygiene by regularly cleaning and sanitizing your gardening tools, as they can spread diseases from plant to plant.
By implementing these management practices and preventive measures, you can keep your Oxalis sonderiana healthy and beautiful for years to come.
